In the last quarter of 2024, Madeira’s hiking fee initiative brought in more than €351,000 in revenue, according to data from the IFCN (Institute for Forests and Nature Conservation). The funds were collected between October and December and are part of a broader effort to promote safety, environmental conservation, and trail maintenance across the island.
During the same period, the Forest Police—an agency under the IFCN—reported four accidents on classified hiking trails, including three injuries and one fatality. The fatal accident involved a young German tourist who tragically fell from a cliff near Pico do Areeiro after reportedly stepping off the designated trail to take photos.
The “waste management fee” of €3 was initially limited to seven trails but has been expanded since January 1, 2025, to cover all 38 officially recommended hiking routes on the island. This includes popular destinations like Ponta de São Lourenço, Pico do Areeiro, Balcões, and Pico Ruivo.
The fee applies to all visitors aged over 12, though residents of the Autonomous Region of Madeira are exempt. Tourists can pay the fee through the ‘Simplifica’ online platform managed by the Regional Government or at designated IFCN checkpoints along the trails. For added convenience, hikers are allowed to exchange bookings between trails, providing greater flexibility for those exploring Madeira’s diverse landscapes.
Officials emphasize that the primary goal of this initiative is not only to manage waste but also to support the upkeep of the trails and preserve the natural beauty of the island. Additionally, the system aims to enhance the safety of hikers by ensuring that trails remain well-maintained and clearly marked.
Figures for the first quarter of 2025 are still pending, but the initial revenue and safety reports underscore both the popularity of Madeira’s trails and the necessity of sustainable tourism management in the region.
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